York police announce $50,000 reward in 2000 cold case
Posted December 8, 2015 7:10 am.
Last Updated December 8, 2015 10:43 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
York police have announced a $50,000 reward and released new evidence as they work to solve a 15-year-old murder.
Manuel Desa, 33, was killed on June 25, 2000. He was stabbed happened on Royal Colwood Court, near Dufferin Street and Steeles Avenue in Vaughan.
Police say Desa, his common-law wife and her child were returning from visiting a neighbour when they were “surprised” by two men around 10 p.m.
A struggle ensued between Desa and the two men. One was overheard to say, “It’s okay, Manny, it’s me, Chris.”
The fight moved into the street and the two men fled in a nearby car. Desa’s common-law wife went to his aid and found him suffering from a stab wound. He died on the way to the hospital.
The suspects are white, approximately six-feet tall, with stocky builds and broad shoulders. They were in their mid to late 20s at the time.
The first suspect had short light brown hair that had been brushed back and light coloured eyes. The second suspect had short dark hair. The vehicle was a pale white or beige small-to mid-size sedan.
Desa owned his own contracting (framing) business known as Camarites Construction in addition to Ridge 2000 and Blue Star Construction. He was involved with Union Locals 183 and Local 27.
On Tuesday, police released a composite sketch of one of the suspects, as well as several photos from the crime scene. Two of them depict a boot that was left behind, while the final photo shows Cesa’s house.
Police are hoping the photos, and the money, will help jog someone’s memory. The reward will only be offered for one year and will expire on Dec. 8, 2016.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police.
